From the Editor
I’m certainly no railway buff. I didn’t even go train
spotting like most young boys of my era, but as I’ve got
older I’ve begun to appreciate the value of railways and
the incredible feat of engineering required to construct not only
the great engines but also the country’s railway network.
Here in Yorkshire we are blessed with several
of the best scenic routes in the country and we also have some
of the most dedicated enthusiasts, many of whom volunteer their
services to preserve our magnificent lines and engines. Their
work in maintaining these attractions and services helps bring
in millions of pounds to the local economy and also opens up
more of Yorkshire to those who can’t or don’t want
to drive.
Steam trains, of course, conjure up nostalgia
for many people and the demise of those old giants pulling their
rickety carriages around the county is much lamented. In this
month’s issue
we have a special piece commemorating the end, forty years ago,
of British Rail steam trains on the famous Settle-Carlisle run.
I also had a trip up the Wensleydale line to witness the opening
of a ‘new’ station at Bedale on this revitalised stretch
of railway. So it’s all aboard for a memorable ride through
Yorkshire.
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